Water: The Ultimate Energy Drink You’re Overlooking

Let's discuss something so basic, so clear-cut, yet so underappreciated that it is almost invisible. And no, I'm not referring to your cherished cup of coffee or some pricey energy drink with a striking label. I mean water here. Yes, nice old H2O—the OG energy drink you have been sleeping on.

Alright, hear me out here. Dehydration: sneaky is it. It not only leaves you somewhat thirsty but also alters your brain in ways you most likely never even noticed. Your immediate memory? Poof is Your attention capacity? vanished. Not even should we discuss your energy level. The worst part is that your brain is a shockingly 85% water while your body is only roughly 70%. Indeed, your brain resembles a water balloon almost exactly. Thus, your brain's like, "Hello?," when you're not drinking enough water. Could I have a refill over here?

Let us now momentarily be realistic. The Mayo Clinic estimates that the typical American consumes around 32 ounces of water daily. Sounds good, just right? mistaken. Just going about their daily walk, breathing, existence, that same ordinary individual loses more than eighty ounces of water. Calculate the arithmetic. That's like attempting to fill a swimming pool with a garden hose while someone is emptying it with a bucket. Not exactly perfect.

And before you roll your eyes and think, "Okay, but I'm fine," let me hit you with this: even a little 1% reduction in your hydration levels can cause a 5% drop in cognitive performance. Five per percent! That's the difference between blanking on your boss's name midway through and nailing that huge job presentation. Furthermore, we are not discussing about Sahara Desert-level dryness. Just a small amount of negligence, and brain fog central results.

Start Your Day Correct—Hydrate First Thing

You are aware of the sleepy, "don't-talk-to-me-yet" sensation you experience upon waking. Part of that is that before you even get out of bed, you are already dehydrated. Consider it: for six, seven, or eight hours your body has been running on nothing. Thus, the movement is to down at least sixteen ounces of water thirty minutes after waking up. Actually, develop a habit of this. Your brain will thank you; you will feel like a semi-functional human being far more quickly.

Actually Needed Amount of Water

There's a rule flying about that you should consume half your body weight in ounces of water daily. Given 150 pounds, then, try for 75 ounces. Like a lot? As such is. Trust me, though; once you settle into the rhythms, it's not that difficult. One recommendation is to always have a water bottle with you. I mean everywhere. I usually have a glass on my desk and I never leave the house without one. Though you know, healthier. It's like my security blanket.

The Slump in Afternoon Terms—Most Likely It's Dehydration

You know about the 3 p.m. collapse when you find yourself wanting to grab another coffee or a covert sugary snack? Nine times out of ten, you are dehydrated rather than weary. I have been there. I'll catch myself dragging, swallow a large glass of water, and in ten minutes it feels like someone turned the "on" switch. Strength? Behind. Concentration: razor-sharp. Almost magic is what it is. Not sure I could be right? Experiment on yourself.

Is It Possible to Overhydrate?

Alright, let us handle the elephant in the room. Although technically it is possible to drink too much water, you are most likely okay unless you are gassing gallons in one sitting. Most of us are so far from that point it is ridiculous. The fundamental problem is we are not quite drinking enough. You are therefore good unless you are participating in some unusual water-drinking contest.

Ground Line: Water Is the Player of Choice

Start with water if you are feeling slow, unfocused, or just wrong. Among the most affordable, quick fixes available is this one. Ignore the energy drinks and the many glasses of coffee. Nine times out of 10, the offender is dehydration; water is the hero.

The deal is that drink water early, often, and keep it running all day long. You'll feel sharper, think faster, and have the vitality to meet whatever comes your way. On this one, trust me; you will see the difference. And once you start, you'll say, "Wow, I should have been doing this all along." You welcome.

Learn more about the importance of hydration on Wikipedia or explore tips for staying hydrated on Forbes Health.